Kentucky Military History Museum

Just how rich is Kentucky’s military history? Let’s see…

Fact: Kentucky provided more soldiers in the War of 1812 than any other state and suffered approximately 60 percent of the war’s total casualties.

Fact: During the Civil War, Kentucky’s government declared the Commonwealth to be neutral –then sided with the Union. The state’s people were deeply divided, however, and approximately 35,000 Kentuckians actually fought for the Confederacy.

Fact: Since 1862, 60 Kentuckians have received the Medal of Honor, the highest military honor the United States government awards.

Fact: It’s obvious that Kentucky has a rich military history.

That history is both preserved and explained at the Kentucky Military History Museum. The State Arsenal for more than 100 years and a Civil War-era munitions factory, this Gothic Revival style building houses the exhibits “Kentucky Military Treasures” and “George M. Chinn: Sights Set on Innovation,” and 19th-century war records (available for use by appointment).

The Kentucky Historical Society operates the museum with the Kentucky Department for Military Affairs.

Old War Records

Researchers documenting Kentucky’s military past or that of their own family will benefit from the collection of the Military Records and Research Branch, Kentucky Department of Military Affairs.

Available for use at the Kentucky Military History Museum, the collection includes:
Documentation of the Kentucky Militia, Kentucky State Guard, Kentucky National Legion and Volunteer regiments (1794 to 1912).

Records from 1794-1860, including the Cornstalk Militia, War of 1812 and Mexican War (a limited number).

Civil War records from all Union regiments, Adjutant and Quartermaster General’s Offices, state formations and Ordnance Departments.